Flathead Lake near Polson, Montana spans 197 square miles with 185 miles of shoreline, making it the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with cool evenings dropping to 45-55°F. Most campgrounds in the region maintain pet policies allowing dogs on leashes no longer than 10 feet, with specific exercise areas available at several locations.
What to do
Boat to Wild Horse Island: From Big Arm Unit — Flathead Lake State Park, rent watercraft to visit Wild Horse Island, home to wild horses, bighorn sheep, and mule deer. "Wild Horse island in Flathead Lake is incredible, absolutely worth the trip (by boat only)," notes Justin S.
Swim in crystal waters: The swimming areas at Blue Bay Campground feature colorful underwater rocks and gradual depth. "The water shallow for a long distance of beautiful colorful rocks (like Lake McDonald) and perfect for swimming of all ages," explains Michelle R.
Fish from shore: Anglers can fish directly from campsites at several locations. "Nice quiet camp site near the lake. Had electric hookup and a water spout nearby you could get water if you needed," says Lars W. about Finley Point State Park.
Kayak rental: Several campgrounds offer on-site kayak rentals. "There is a day picnic area and a boat dock with paddle board rentals," explains Evan H. about West Shore State Park.
Hiking trails: Explore shoreline paths with panoramic lake views. "Great views of the lake and sunsets. There is a swimming beach next to the boat docks. Very clear. Wildlife like it here too. Saw deer every night," shares Chris G.
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Finley Point Unit — Flathead Lake State Park offers premium waterfront camping. "There are a select few sites yards away from the water, each with a bit of beach. The biting bugs were minimal, but the swarms of other bugs were impressive, and the fish obviously loved them," reports Gabrielle K.
Tent camping: Yellow Bay State Park provides tent-only sites with stream sounds that mask road noise. "This was an amazing tent site. A little windy at night, but I loved falling asleep to the sound of the wind and waves breaking as we were right next to the water," says Danielle O.
Wildlife viewing: Numerous campers report deer sightings at dusk. "Wildlife like it here too. Saw deer every night," notes Chris G. about Finley Point.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "Bathrooms on site were very clean," mentions Lars W., while Kelly W. adds, "Well maintained campground with clean bathrooms."
Helpful camp hosts: Personal attention from staff enhances the experience. "When I first arrived I was immediately greeted by cheerful, friendly and outgoing camp host Steven, who is very knowledgeable of the area," explains John I.
What you should know
Campground busyness: West Shore Unit — Flathead Lake State Park and other lake campgrounds fill quickly during summer months. "Busy place and fills up quickly," warns Bonnie E. about Finley Point.
Boat trailer parking: Some boat launches have limited parking space. "There may be an issue with parking with a boat trailer at the launch, space is limited," cautions Kelly W.
Reservation timing: Many campers find success with walk-up sites midweek. "Stumbled on this campground last August while looking for a place to park the RV for a night on the way up to GNP. Got lucky with spot 17," shares Blake W.
Tribal campgrounds: Some campgrounds on tribal land prohibit alcohol. "Native land & no alcohol. Fire ring with grill attachment and a picnic table," explains Morgan O. about Blue Bay Campground.
Road noise: Campgrounds near Highway 93 experience traffic sounds. "The highway is just above the campsite so there is road noise from time to time but it quiets down at night and the nearby stream drowns out most of it," reports Todd M.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly beaches: Blair Flats offers riverside camping with gentle water access. "Nice spot by the river," notes Bradley B., while Sara L. adds, "Fishing is great, right out your door is the river!"
Protected swimming areas: Some campgrounds feature designated swimming zones. "They have swimming docks, a boat launch, sunning lawn and a newly added concession stand," Michelle R. explains about Blue Bay Campground.
Playground access: Rollins RV Park maintains play equipment for children. "One of the best things about the park is the great playground for kids. Our kids loved it!" states Brian C.
Day-use alternatives: When campgrounds fill, day-use areas provide lake access. "West Shore State Park was a beautiful way to spend an afternoon after kayaking to Wild Horse Horse Island State Park nearby," explains Elizabeth G.
Groceries and supplies: Most campgrounds are within 15 minutes of markets. "The closest market is Papa's Woods Bay Market, about 10 minutes north. They have a basic selection but it works," notes Todd M.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Diamond S RV Park, avoid certain trees during specific seasons. "Stay clear of trees in center/maple sap! Covered rv quickly. Easy clean up and owners offered to move us," warns Paul C.
Cell reception: Coverage varies by location and carrier. "2-3 bars of AT&T 5g, good enough to work, and quite all night," reports Hailey M. about Big Arm State Park.
Hook-up availability: RV sites at Finley Point have limited utilities. "We were there during the off-season so it wasn't too busy. Had electric hookup and a water spout nearby you could get water if you needed," shares Lars W.
RV-friendly roads: Access roads to some campgrounds can challenge larger rigs. "A bit tight if you are a bigger rig but doable in the right spot," notes Hailey M.
Dump stations: Not all campgrounds have on-site dump facilities. Sites with RV-friendly amenities include Diamond S RV Park, which offers "full hook-ups" according to Mark M.
